Not all the airplanes were the same color, but for a while all of the planes were yellow. From far left, John Thompson's Barnstormer, Niels Madsen's Firecat, Jim Cameron's Firecat, Mike Hazel's Big Slob and Gary Weems' Cardinal. Flying Lines photo.

Blue skies at the Zoot Ranch

Mehama, Ore., Sept. 19, 2026

Control-line fliers gathered in beautiful weather to enjoy a day of flying fun at the annual Zoot Ranch Fun Fly and Picnic in Mike Hazel's backyard in Mehama, Ore.  The usual variety of airplanes was on hand and the food was tasty!

Lots of flying was done from 10 a.m. until about 3 p.m.

Weather was perfect for flying, with almost no wind, and the array of planes was, as usual, quite varied.

Attending were Sam Baird, Terence and Valerie Bardue, Craig Bartlett, Jim Cameron, Mark Cunningham, Don Dotter and grandson, Mike Hazel, Niels Madsen, Will Naemura, Gene Pape, John Thompson and Gary and Peggy Weems, along with some Hazel family members.

Zoot Ranch Fun Fly photos

Click here to see an onboard video, filmed from John Thompson's ancient Vector 40.

Gene Pape made the first flight of the day with his foam-winged Voodoo. Flying Lines photo.

Niels Madsen flies his Firecat. Flying Lines photo.

Niels Madsen's Firecat in flight. Flying Lines photo.

Gary Weems' Cardinal in flight. Flying Lines photo.

Terence Bardue prepares his Ukey for a flight. Flying Lines photo.

Jim Cameron at the handle. Flying Lines photo.

Jim Cameron's Firecat in flight. Flying Lines photo.

Host Mike Hazel finally gets a chance to fly; his Big Slob heads down the runway after Gene Pape's launch. Flying Lines photo.

The Big Slob flies against the forest backdrop. Flying Lines photo.

Lunch time! Mike Hazel flips burgers as fliers line up for the food. Flying Lines photo.

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This page was updated Sept. 20, 2026